Abstract
The analysis of trace herbicides using the on-line SPE-HPLC system and a photochemical reaction was studied. 18 compounds of herbicides including eight triazines, six phenoxy acids and esters, and four other herbicides were examined. The on-line SPE-HPLC system developed for selection of eluting solvent improved chromatographic efficiency. The recoveries of herbicides were higher than 77%. With 100 mL tap water samples, the detection limits for all analytes were in the 0.1-2.3×10-10 M range. Detection was done by a UV or fluorescence spectrometer after photochemical reaction at the end of the column with 2W or 450W mercury lamp. Without a photochemical reaction, all compounds responded to 230 nm UV detector, but phenoxy acids and esters were weakly detected. However, with a photochemical reaction, these compounds were selectively detected at 320 nm wavelength of UV absorption and 400 nm emission of the fluorescence detectors. This method can be used for the analysis of environmental water containing herbicides at trace levels.